Yedioth Ahronoth: Real Test of Israel-Lebanon Deal Begins After Signing

The Hebrew newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth described the agreement between Israel and Lebanon, brokered by the United States, as significant—not because it guarantees peace, but because it reflects a profound change in Lebanese consciousness. This change, the paper noted, emerged from harsh realities rather than illusions.

It emphasized that Lebanon has paid a heavy price to recognize a truth many ignored for years: Hezbollah does not protect Lebanon but rather destroys it. The group is not a Lebanese army but an Iranian force operating on Lebanese soil, serving Iranian objectives and sacrificing Lebanon's national interest for Tehran's strategy. Hezbollah has prevented Lebanese governments from asserting sovereignty over the entire country, harmed the economy, weakened state institutions, and repeatedly dragged Lebanese citizens into wars that did not benefit their future.

The newspaper pointed to statements by Hezbollah's Secretary-General, Naim Qassem, who effectively admitted that the strength of the Israeli army cannot be compared to that of Hezbollah. This acknowledgment reflects the depth of the shift. When Hezbollah's leadership concedes power disparities, sustaining the myth of an invincible "resistance army" becomes difficult. However, the agreement, regardless of its merits, remains only a framework. History teaches that the Middle East is tested not by the quality of documents but by the quality of their implementation. Agreements succeed or fail based on their application, not their written terms.

Yedioth Ahronoth noted that the real struggle will not be limited to confronting weapons depots, launch platforms, or tunnels but will take place in the hearts of Lebanese citizens. For many years, residents of southern Lebanon relied almost exclusively on Hezbollah for their needs. The group provided not only arms but also fuel, social welfare, healthcare, education, economic aid, and employment opportunities. This is how Hezbollah built its true source of power: a popular base.

The paper argued that if Iranian funds flow into reconstruction and welfare after the Lebanese army enters the south, while the state limits itself to deploying security forces, no fundamental change will occur. The source from which Hezbollah recruits its human resources will continue to flow. Therefore, alongside the Lebanese army's deployment, the Lebanese government must also be present—not only in military uniform but through government ministries. It should offer not just checkpoints but healthcare, welfare, education, employment, and community rehabilitation. Citizens must feel that the state is their primary reference, not Hezbollah. This is a significant challenge the Lebanese government must courageously undertake.

Additionally, the Lebanese government should gradually dismantle Hezbollah's civilian and economic infrastructure, including fuel stations, service networks, companies, social welfare institutions, and all mechanisms that have made Hezbollah a state within a state. While dismantling military capabilities is important, dismantling civilian sources of power is equally crucial.

The newspaper also identified a clear Israeli interest in the success of this process. For years, relations with Lebanon were viewed solely through deterrence. However, the new reality allows consideration of shared interests. Israel is not Lebanon's main threat and may become part of the solution for many Lebanese. Israel can assist directly or indirectly, publicly when possible and covertly when necessary. It can supply gas to stabilize Lebanon's energy sector and share intelligence to help the Lebanese government counter Iran's repositioning efforts and address regional threats before they reach Lebanese territory.

Yedioth Ahronoth concluded that the agreement's success depends not only on dismantling Hezbollah's weapons but also on replacing the source of authority in the eyes of Lebanese citizens. As long as citizens believe Hezbollah cares for them more than their government does, the group will find ways to recover. When the Lebanese government provides personal security, services, and hope for the future, Hezbollah's power base will erode.

Following Iran's loss of significant influence in Syria, a rare opportunity has emerged to reduce its hold in Lebanon as well. This is a long and complex battle, but for the first time in years, there is alignment of interests among Israel, the Lebanese government, and the majority of Lebanese citizens: a sovereign, effective Lebanon free from the control of a foreign army.

The newspaper stated that if the agreement is transformed from a political document into a civil, economic, and security implementation plan, it may be viewed in the future not as another failed attempt but as a historic turning point that changed the reality on the northern border and across the Middle East. What remains is not only hope but also the commitment to do everything possible to ensure the Lebanese president and government withstand this challenge.